Sherwood Forest National Nature Reserve contains some of the oldest trees in Europe, veteran oaks five centuries old and the world-famous Major Oak, still producing acorns after standing at the heart of the forest for an estimated 800 years!

The 450 acre country park is part of the Sherwood Forest National Nature Reserve, designated in 2002 by Natural England, the Government agency responsible for safeguarding our natural environment.

The ecology here is fascinating. The natural decay of fallen timber means the woodland teems with insect life and fungi, which in turn provide food for varied species of birds and bats.

The site is managed by Nottinghamshire County Council and maintained by our country park rangers, working to a woodland management plan drawn up in partnership with English Nature. Each year we welcome around 350,000 visitors to Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre, which is located near the village of Edwinstowe.

Britain's No.1 Green Space

Sherwood Forest has been voted Britain's No.1 Green Space by Homebase customers! Thank you to all who voted.

What to see and do

Major Oak

Within the 450 acre site there are 900 veteran oak trees, including the famous Major Oak. Recently crowned England's Tree of the Year by the Woodland Trust, this ancient oak is located just a ten minute walk from the Visitor Centre. Come and visit one of the world's most famous woods!

Robin Hood

Once a royal hunting forest, this is the legendary home of the outlaw Robin Hood.

Each year in August, the week long Robin Hood Festival is a colourful celebration of the life and times of the world's most famous outlaw.

Waymarked trails

We have a free self guided leaflet available in Visitor Information and reception. The Blue Trail takes you on a 45 minute circular path round the Major Oak. The Green Trail takes about an hour and skirts along the Longhorn Cattle enclosure. The Red Trail takes approximately two hours and leads around the forest. Suitable for all ages.

Shops and refreshments

Bird sightings

Sherwood is home to a variety of birds including nightjars, woodlarks, hawfinches, marsh and willow tits. For more information on the birds likely to be sighted at Sherwood, along with other interesting information about the nature reserve, see RSPB Sherwood and Natural England.

There is also a wealth of information on bird, butterfly, insect and other nature sightings at Sherwood and surrounding areas on the Eakring Birds website.

Weddings

Looking for somewhere unusual to celebrate your big day? Get married in the Oak Room at the Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre.

Join our volunteers

We welcome local people and visitors who want to get involved in the work of the park. Volunteers and helpers at conservation task days or park events are always welcome. Ring the Ranger team for a chat to find out more on tel: 01623 823202.

Staff Information

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